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Jeremy Wendt sits down with Donna Ray, longtime school counselor at Rickman Pre-K through 8th school, where she helps support more than 700 students every day. A Livingston native and Rickman alum herself, Donna reflects on her 23-year career—including the full-circle moment of student-teaching alongside her own favorite childhood teacher. She discusses how early exposure to technology, when not monitored, can shape mental health and behavior in today’s students, and how different school life is now compared to her own upbringing. Donna also shares her hopes for Rickman’s future, their 2025 food drive, and her thoughts on the ongoing teacher shortage. It’s an insightful look at the challenges and heart behind supporting students in today’s world. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

From a military upbringing to owning a hometown favorite—George Halford sits down with Bruce and Jeanne Cannon of the "Country Kitchen on Main". They share stories of hard work, family roots in Crossville, opening their first restaurant at just 22, and how food, community, and philanthropy have shaped their journey. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Chris Miller, Director of Cumberland County EMS, to talk about his journey from growing up in Jamestown to serving in the U.S. Air Force—including time stationed in Fairbanks, Alaska—before becoming an EMT in the late 90's. Chris reflects on returning home to serve Cumberland County, the unique challenges of covering one of Tennessee’s largest counties by acreage, and the growing demands on rural emergency services. He also opens up about the toll of COVID-19 on first responders, the community-wide response to the 2020 tornado, and his vision for the future of EMS in the Upper Cumberland. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Drs. Mabry and Lee sit down with Jennifer Wilson, Account Manager for Blood Assurance in Cookeville, in honor of National Blood Donor Month. Jennifer explains her role with the local nonprofit, which serves as the sole blood provider for Cookeville Regional Medical Center, and highlights why blood donations are so critical to patients across the Upper Cumberland. She discusses seasonal blood shortages, the types of patients who rely most on donations, and how a single donation can save up to three lives. The conversation also walks listeners through the donation process—from eligibility and preparation to mobile blood drives—while busting common myths and sharing how local high school donors play a vital role in keeping the community’s blood supply strong. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton talks with Mark Dickerson of Mark’s Heating and Air, a locally owned business serving the community for a little over a decade. Mark shares what inspired him to start his company, the challenges of running a business today, and why customer service is at the heart of everything he does. He also offers practical tips for homeowners, including common HVAC issues, when to service your system, and how heating and cooling technology can impact energy costs and indoor air quality. Plus, Mark explains how to get quotes, schedule service, and protect yourself from being taken advantage of. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Trey Upchurch, Supervisor of Coordinated Health and Student Services for the Putnam County School System, to talk about the journey that shaped his passion for education. Growing up in Jamestown, Tennessee, Trey followed his family’s long line of teachers before studying education at Roane State Community College. He later stepped into the Air Force, where traveling across the world gave him an eye-opening perspective far beyond small-town Tennessee. Trey reflects on how those experiences strengthened his mission to support students’ health, well-being, and overall success. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about service, perspective, and the path that led Trey home. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

From stone-washed blue jeans to the pulpit—and beyond. George Halford talks with Paul Ramsey of The Church On The Hill about family legacy, faith, music, and the unexpected journey that led him from 20 years in ministry to a new chapter as a financial advisor. Tune in to hear his story! Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers talks with Putnam County Commission Chairman Chris Cassety, a lifelong public servant whose passion for local government runs in the family. Cassety shares how his father’s example—and the legacy of longtime commissioner Reggie Shanks—shaped his path to representing District 6. He breaks down the county budget, the dynamics of commission factions, and the challenges that come with stepping into the chairman’s role. With six years of service behind him, Cassety offers an inside look at leadership, responsibility, and what it really takes to guide Putnam County forward. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Emily Lee talks with Charla McPeake, Clinical Coordinator at Tennessee Tech University, about keeping children safe during the colder holiday months. Charla draws on her nursing experience to highlight common seasonal injuries, home and travel safety tips for families with infants, and accident prevention around decorations, breakable ornaments, and toys. The conversation also covers age-appropriate play, helping children understand the difference between toys and real objects, and safety considerations for kids riding ATVs. It’s a timely, informative discussion packed with practical advice for parents and caregivers. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Tiffany Anton sits down with chiropractor and exercise physiologist Logan Lamb, whose unique approach blends clinical skill with personal training expertise. Logan breaks down how he helps clients move beyond quick fixes to truly understand and heal their pain. From customized training plans to judgment-free physical exams, he focuses on communication, education, and empowering people to take charge of their health. Working inside Apple Fitness Health, Logan brings a fresh, whole-body perspective to chiropractic care. Tune in to learn how Illuminate Health is changing what “getting better” really means. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Jeremy Wendt sits down with Cookeville High School PE teacher and basketball coach Jamie Gillies, whose path to the gym wasn’t as straightforward as it seems. Jamie shares how her early plans for athletic training shifted as she pursued a career that balanced her love for sports with her desire to raise a family. From teaching special education to leading the all-girls physical education class, Jamie explains what drives her approach in the classroom. Now in her ninth year of coaching at Cookeville, she reflects on how competitive high school sports have become and what she’s learned from coaching her own daughters—especially that every kid is motivated differently. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about teaching, coaching, and lifting up the next generation. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

George Halford sits down with Kasey McCartey, Director of Development for Habitat for Humanity. Kasey shares heartfelt stories of growing up with her siblings—including her twin sister—and how lessons from sports, family, and faith have shaped her life. She opens up about meeting her husband, facing life’s unexpected challenges, and the powerful moment that reminded her how precious time with loved ones truly is. Through it all, Kasey’s story reflects resilience, gratitude, and a lifelong commitment to learning, growing, and giving back. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Ben Rodgers sits down with Van Buren County Sheriff Michael Brock, whose path to law enforcement is anything but traditional. From growing up between California and the Upper Cumberland to working his way up through manufacturing, Brock found his true calling at age 36—entering the police academy and stepping into a role he describes as “a God thing.” He shares how faith, community, and mentorship shaped his rise from Spencer’s lone night patrol officer to police chief, and ultimately to county sheriff. Brock opens up about leadership, answering a calling, and his commitment to serving Van Buren County with heart and integrity. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Dr. Lee sits down with third-generation chiropractor Erica Sussex-Grant of Allgood Health Chiropractic to talk spinal health, movement, and whole-body wellness. Erica shares her journey to Algood after COVID, breaks down the science behind chiropractic care, and explains why spinal health matters from “the womb to the tomb.” The conversation tackles common pain issues, posture problems, myths about chiropractic treatment, and why more families are turning to early chiropractic care. Plus, Erica offers practical tips for staying healthy, explains cold laser therapy, and walks listeners through what to expect at their first appointment. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1

Step inside the world of Jordan Creek Farm as Tiffany Anton talks with owner and instructor Victoria Wallace—who moved 16 horses and an entire dream from Illinois to Tennessee. Victoria shares how she built her business from backyard lessons to a thriving farm focused on safety, education, and community. From Tiny Tots classes to Poetry with Ponies and nursing home visits, her programs inspire connection, confidence, and joy. Discover the heart behind the horses and the mission that keeps Jordan Creek Farm growing. Tune in for an inspiring ride. Listen To The Local Matters Podcast Today! News Talk 94.1